Autism Therapists in Lisle, ON

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Photo of Michelle Straka, MA, BA, Registered Psychotherapist
Michelle Straka
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Angus, ON L0M
Clinical interests include: anxiety & stress, depression, anger management, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, emotional regulation, self-compassion & self-worth, and relationship rebuilding.
My approach to therapy is deeply rooted in the core belief that the therapeutic relationship is essential for facilitating change, healing, and growth towards successful treatment outcomes. I believe in a holistic integrated approach, utilizing a client-centered approach combining a variety of therapeutic interventions such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Somatic experiencing, and Mindfulness to fit your individual goals, needs, and beliefs.
Clinical interests include: anxiety & stress, depression, anger management, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, emotional regulation, self-compassion & self-worth, and relationship rebuilding.
My approach to therapy is deeply rooted in the core belief that the therapeutic relationship is essential for facilitating change, healing, and growth towards successful treatment outcomes. I believe in a holistic integrated approach, utilizing a client-centered approach combining a variety of therapeutic interventions such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Somatic experiencing, and Mindfulness to fit your individual goals, needs, and beliefs.
(888) 340-4325 View (888) 340-4325
Photo of Wendy Roza, MDiv, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Wendy Roza
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MDiv, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
Angus, ON L0M
Are you on a journey of self-discovery & personal growth? As a dedicated and compassionate therapist, I'm here to walk alongside you through life's challenges with an approach that respects your unique experiences. In our sessions, I see you as a whole person, not just a list of symptoms. We'll create a safe and supportive space where you can freely explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours without fear of judgment. My goal is to empower you to uncover underlying issues, gain insights into your patterns, and develop effective coping strategies.
Are you on a journey of self-discovery & personal growth? As a dedicated and compassionate therapist, I'm here to walk alongside you through life's challenges with an approach that respects your unique experiences. In our sessions, I see you as a whole person, not just a list of symptoms. We'll create a safe and supportive space where you can freely explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours without fear of judgment. My goal is to empower you to uncover underlying issues, gain insights into your patterns, and develop effective coping strategies.
(289) 763-9898 View (289) 763-9898
Photo of Carmela Diano, MEd, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Carmela Diano
Registered Social Worker, MEd, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Angus, ON L0M
All children are so very unique and constantly changing. Sometimes they need a helping hand to keep them moving along to thrive in their relationships and connections with others; or to develop strategies to support emotional regulation, social skills, life skills, anxiety reduction, concentration and focus, or processing of traumatic events. Throughout the process, parent/caregiver participation is a key component when it comes to working with children. My long-standing experience with neurodivergent children, youth, and their families will provide you with the reassurance you need to move forward.
All children are so very unique and constantly changing. Sometimes they need a helping hand to keep them moving along to thrive in their relationships and connections with others; or to develop strategies to support emotional regulation, social skills, life skills, anxiety reduction, concentration and focus, or processing of traumatic events. Throughout the process, parent/caregiver participation is a key component when it comes to working with children. My long-standing experience with neurodivergent children, youth, and their families will provide you with the reassurance you need to move forward.
(249) 493-7438 View (249) 493-7438
Photo of Charlotte Laws - Prismatic Compassion - Therapy Collective, MSc, ADTP, HBASc, Registered Psychotherapist
Prismatic Compassion - Therapy Collective
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, ADTP, HBASc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Angus, ON L0M  (Online Only)
Are you LGBT2SQ+ and need help exploring sexuality and gender identity? Are you self or late-diagnosed ADHD/Autistic and want help in understanding yourself better? Do you have a chronic illness, hormonal issues, or are going through menopause & want a therapist who understands and gets the challenges in navigating the medical system? Do you want help to improve your relationship with food and body image, to stop binge eating, or to better understand your sensory eating differences? Are you trying to divest from diet culture and are looking for weight-inclusive, health at every size support? If we could help, please book a consult.
Are you LGBT2SQ+ and need help exploring sexuality and gender identity? Are you self or late-diagnosed ADHD/Autistic and want help in understanding yourself better? Do you have a chronic illness, hormonal issues, or are going through menopause & want a therapist who understands and gets the challenges in navigating the medical system? Do you want help to improve your relationship with food and body image, to stop binge eating, or to better understand your sensory eating differences? Are you trying to divest from diet culture and are looking for weight-inclusive, health at every size support? If we could help, please book a consult.
(249) 703-5512 View (249) 703-5512
Photo of Petrina Rocca, BASc, MACP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Petrina Rocca
Pre-Licensed Professional, BASc, MACP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Angus, ON L0M
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) who has completed her Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology. My naturally empathetic and understanding nature is what fuels my passion and devotion to understand a client's perspectives, needs, and experiences. My goal is to help you find acceptance in your thoughts and feelings without being overwhelmed by them, and to bring a sense of connection to your world bringing forth an optimistic, confident, and courageous way to live life the way you want to.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) who has completed her Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology. My naturally empathetic and understanding nature is what fuels my passion and devotion to understand a client's perspectives, needs, and experiences. My goal is to help you find acceptance in your thoughts and feelings without being overwhelmed by them, and to bring a sense of connection to your world bringing forth an optimistic, confident, and courageous way to live life the way you want to.
(905) 553-9507 View (905) 553-9507
Photo of Michelle Lloyd, D:VATI, MC:AT, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Michelle Lloyd
Registered Psychotherapist, D:VATI, MC:AT, RP
Verified Verified
Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z
Within my practice, I specialize in working with children and adolescents and adults, specifically adults looking for parenting support/coaching and mothers entering into the world of parenting (prenatal, pregnancy, postpartum). My therapeutic approach is an eclectic one, one that is flexible to the needs of my client. It is very important to know that therapy is not a “one size fits all” approach and therefore I find flexibility in my approach to be imperative. I offer therapeutic approaches in the realm of talk, art, and play therapy. I have training in a variety of therapeutic approaches making my approach flexible to your needs.
Within my practice, I specialize in working with children and adolescents and adults, specifically adults looking for parenting support/coaching and mothers entering into the world of parenting (prenatal, pregnancy, postpartum). My therapeutic approach is an eclectic one, one that is flexible to the needs of my client. It is very important to know that therapy is not a “one size fits all” approach and therefore I find flexibility in my approach to be imperative. I offer therapeutic approaches in the realm of talk, art, and play therapy. I have training in a variety of therapeutic approaches making my approach flexible to your needs.
(249) 490-5634 View (249) 490-5634
Photo of Emily Duggan, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Emily Duggan
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Angus, ON L0M
Are you struggling to understand your emotions or manage overwhelming thoughts? Do you feel disconnected from your identity or others? Whether you’re dealing with BPD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, or trauma, I’m here to help you navigate the complexity of your mental health. We can seek growth, healing, and clarity. Maybe you question your self-worth or wonder how to build healthy relationships and communicate or set boundaries. Together, we can explore what you need to feel secure, empowered, and more connected to yourself and the world around you.
Are you struggling to understand your emotions or manage overwhelming thoughts? Do you feel disconnected from your identity or others? Whether you’re dealing with BPD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, or trauma, I’m here to help you navigate the complexity of your mental health. We can seek growth, healing, and clarity. Maybe you question your self-worth or wonder how to build healthy relationships and communicate or set boundaries. Together, we can explore what you need to feel secure, empowered, and more connected to yourself and the world around you.
(249) 202-2261 View (249) 202-2261
Photo of Courtney Perry
Courtney Perry
Registered Social Service Worker
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Angus, ON L0M
At the core of my practice is the belief in the inherent strength and worthiness of all people. I work to create an environment absolutely free of judgement, where each person is respected and valued as an individual. I am a strong advocate for normalizing therapy and mental health care. I believe in a strengths focused approach and utilize evidence-based therapies. I integrate my experiences with substance abuse, family violence and loss into helping my clients find success through troubled times. As such, I am passionate about working with couples and families in particular. Individual teens, adults and elders are also welcome.
At the core of my practice is the belief in the inherent strength and worthiness of all people. I work to create an environment absolutely free of judgement, where each person is respected and valued as an individual. I am a strong advocate for normalizing therapy and mental health care. I believe in a strengths focused approach and utilize evidence-based therapies. I integrate my experiences with substance abuse, family violence and loss into helping my clients find success through troubled times. As such, I am passionate about working with couples and families in particular. Individual teens, adults and elders are also welcome.
(249) 495-0741 View (249) 495-0741
Photo of Nicole Davis, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Nicole Davis
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Angus, ON L0M
Everyone gets a little stuck sometimes. We experience painful experiences that can be hard to move past. We become overwhelmed by our responsibilities and sometimes burn out. We get in arguments with loved ones, and we make mistakes. We're human. If you're looking to get back on track, you've come to the right place. My goal is to support you in learning to balance the conflicting expectations and responsibilities in your life, and also make time for the things that you enjoy. To support you as you explore your own needs and desires and learn to have compassion for yourself, instead of beating yourself up all of the time.
Everyone gets a little stuck sometimes. We experience painful experiences that can be hard to move past. We become overwhelmed by our responsibilities and sometimes burn out. We get in arguments with loved ones, and we make mistakes. We're human. If you're looking to get back on track, you've come to the right place. My goal is to support you in learning to balance the conflicting expectations and responsibilities in your life, and also make time for the things that you enjoy. To support you as you explore your own needs and desires and learn to have compassion for yourself, instead of beating yourself up all of the time.
(249) 501-5155 View (249) 501-5155
Photo of Megan Garvey, RP, MACP, BA, Registered Psychotherapist
Megan Garvey
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Angus, ON L0M  (Online Only)
Anxiety/Stress, ADHD, Child/Parenting, Emotion Regulation- Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed, stressed and exhausted, and it's starting to take a toll on your parenting, work, relationships, and personal life. Your emotions are becoming harder to "control" and you feel like you're breaking down. Life is starting to feel daunting & hopeless and you're unsure how to get out of this rut, possibly turning to unhealthy coping methods. If this sounds like you, I'm here to help you overcome the emotional burnout and start making positive changes towards the person, parent, and partner you want to be.
Anxiety/Stress, ADHD, Child/Parenting, Emotion Regulation- Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed, stressed and exhausted, and it's starting to take a toll on your parenting, work, relationships, and personal life. Your emotions are becoming harder to "control" and you feel like you're breaking down. Life is starting to feel daunting & hopeless and you're unsure how to get out of this rut, possibly turning to unhealthy coping methods. If this sounds like you, I'm here to help you overcome the emotional burnout and start making positive changes towards the person, parent, and partner you want to be.
(249) 444-0419 View (249) 444-0419
Photo of Cheryl Wood, MACP, BA Psyc, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Cheryl Wood
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, BA Psyc, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z
Do you feel like you’re not living your life as fully as you could be? Feelings of being unsafe, or ‘on edge’ may be limiting your connections with others, and your ability to pursue the life you want. Whether it’s working through a difficult period, a traumatic event, childhood experiences, or ongoing struggles with stress and anxiety, you don’t need to do this alone. With over 25 years in the teaching and helping fields, I offer empathic support to help you feel more connected to yourself and to enjoy positive, healthy relationships with others.
Do you feel like you’re not living your life as fully as you could be? Feelings of being unsafe, or ‘on edge’ may be limiting your connections with others, and your ability to pursue the life you want. Whether it’s working through a difficult period, a traumatic event, childhood experiences, or ongoing struggles with stress and anxiety, you don’t need to do this alone. With over 25 years in the teaching and helping fields, I offer empathic support to help you feel more connected to yourself and to enjoy positive, healthy relationships with others.
(249) 495-5271 View (249) 495-5271
Photo of Jonathan Douglas - Central Ontario Psychology, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Central Ontario Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Angus, ON L0M
Central Ontario Psychology is a diverse group practice. We offer psychotherapy, clinical assessment, and psychoeducational assessment. Services are provided by psychologists, or under their close supervision. Our clients include adults children adolescents and seniors. We treat anxiety, depression, behavioural and conduct disorders. We offer specialized treatment for trauma, whether from childhood, the workplace, the military, or in First Responders.
Central Ontario Psychology is a diverse group practice. We offer psychotherapy, clinical assessment, and psychoeducational assessment. Services are provided by psychologists, or under their close supervision. Our clients include adults children adolescents and seniors. We treat anxiety, depression, behavioural and conduct disorders. We offer specialized treatment for trauma, whether from childhood, the workplace, the military, or in First Responders.
(705) 980-1066 View (705) 980-1066
Photo of The Dot Collingwood - The Dot Canada, RP, RSW, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
The Dot Canada
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RSW, MA
Verified Verified
Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z  (Online Only)
It's not just you, life HAS gotten harder in the last few years. If you've been powering through, staying strong and carrying on, but now you're barely getting by and you're tired of feeling like you're not really living your life, it might be time for outside support. The benefit of therapy is that it's a time where you get to focus on yourself, to look at your life, and to get an outside perspective on how it could be different. You don't have to just endure, with the right support, you can heal from the past, and move forward towards a better future.
It's not just you, life HAS gotten harder in the last few years. If you've been powering through, staying strong and carrying on, but now you're barely getting by and you're tired of feeling like you're not really living your life, it might be time for outside support. The benefit of therapy is that it's a time where you get to focus on yourself, to look at your life, and to get an outside perspective on how it could be different. You don't have to just endure, with the right support, you can heal from the past, and move forward towards a better future.
(249) 490-4432 View (249) 490-4432

Online Therapists

Photo of Lisa Neill, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Lisa Neill
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6P  (Online Only)
Congratulations on taking the first step towards a more fulfilling life. I'm so glad you're here. My name is Lisa (she/her), and I support adolescent (13+) and adult clients who are looking to overcome and heal from the challenges of life, and discover the best possible version of themselves. I've been a mental health and developmental services professional for nearly 20 years, and have supported those who experience anxiety, depression, addiction, stress, neurodivergence (ADHD and autism), trauma and relational trauma, working in emergency services and their spouses, low self-esteem, and more.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards a more fulfilling life. I'm so glad you're here. My name is Lisa (she/her), and I support adolescent (13+) and adult clients who are looking to overcome and heal from the challenges of life, and discover the best possible version of themselves. I've been a mental health and developmental services professional for nearly 20 years, and have supported those who experience anxiety, depression, addiction, stress, neurodivergence (ADHD and autism), trauma and relational trauma, working in emergency services and their spouses, low self-esteem, and more.
(866) 574-1122 x5 View (866) 574-1122 x5
Photo of Dr. Robyn J Stephens, PhD , CPsych, CPsychl, Psychologist
Dr. Robyn J Stephens
Psychologist, PhD , CPsych, CPsychl
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5T
We offer 20+ yrs of experience working with children, youth & adults, specializing in neurodevelopmental disorders & neurodiversity: Tourette’s Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder (Level 1 ASD/Asperger's), ADD/ADHD, Anxiety and OCD; Learning Disabilities & Giftedness. Dr. Stephens and her team are dedicated to providing clarity of diagnoses, practical strategies and therapeutic support to improve everyday lives of children, teens, adults and their families. We also offer academic planning and support, adhd coaching, and individual therapy for school/career/social related stressors in English, French, Mandarin, Spanish and Romanian.
We offer 20+ yrs of experience working with children, youth & adults, specializing in neurodevelopmental disorders & neurodiversity: Tourette’s Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder (Level 1 ASD/Asperger's), ADD/ADHD, Anxiety and OCD; Learning Disabilities & Giftedness. Dr. Stephens and her team are dedicated to providing clarity of diagnoses, practical strategies and therapeutic support to improve everyday lives of children, teens, adults and their families. We also offer academic planning and support, adhd coaching, and individual therapy for school/career/social related stressors in English, French, Mandarin, Spanish and Romanian.
(437) 747-6194 View (437) 747-6194
Photo of Arzu Ferguson, MSc, CPsych, Psychologist
Arzu Ferguson
Psychologist, MSc, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5B
I provide psychoeducational and psychological assessments for mental health, social/emotional functioning, adult Autism and ADHD.
Life isn’t fair and it’s definitely not easy. No one should have to go through difficult life challenges alone. You might be feeling overwhelmed or stuck. Maybe you are not sure what to do next. I have over 25 years of experience in the assessment and treatment of children, teens and adults. As a licensed Clinical and Counselling Psychologist and Psychotherapist, my utmost goal is to make you feel safe, unjudged and listened. I thrive to provide a caring and welcoming environment. I have helped many people struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Borderline Personality, OCD, Panic attacks, Health Anxiety, Trauma, PTSD, ADHD and Autism.
I provide psychoeducational and psychological assessments for mental health, social/emotional functioning, adult Autism and ADHD.
Life isn’t fair and it’s definitely not easy. No one should have to go through difficult life challenges alone. You might be feeling overwhelmed or stuck. Maybe you are not sure what to do next. I have over 25 years of experience in the assessment and treatment of children, teens and adults. As a licensed Clinical and Counselling Psychologist and Psychotherapist, my utmost goal is to make you feel safe, unjudged and listened. I thrive to provide a caring and welcoming environment. I have helped many people struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Borderline Personality, OCD, Panic attacks, Health Anxiety, Trauma, PTSD, ADHD and Autism.
(289) 302-5824 View (289) 302-5824
Photo of Dan Vervaecke, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Dan Vervaecke
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Princeton, ON N0J
ADHD, Autism, etc.
I want to meet you where you are at. We all need a little help sometimes. I work hard to create a collaborative and empowering environment to adapt to whatever needs you have. I strive to offer an open minded and comfortable space for those who are neurodivergent, neurotypical and people across the gender spectrum. I am here to listen and provide a safe space to talk about any struggles you have. I offer individual and couples sessions . I am accepting new clients and would love to talk to you about what you need.
ADHD, Autism, etc.
I want to meet you where you are at. We all need a little help sometimes. I work hard to create a collaborative and empowering environment to adapt to whatever needs you have. I strive to offer an open minded and comfortable space for those who are neurodivergent, neurotypical and people across the gender spectrum. I am here to listen and provide a safe space to talk about any struggles you have. I offer individual and couples sessions . I am accepting new clients and would love to talk to you about what you need.
(226) 320-7432 View (226) 320-7432
Photo of Dr. Marina Heifetz - Mindful Psychology & Wellness Centre, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Mindful Psychology & Wellness Centre
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4L
Our psychology team offers the following assessments: Psychoeducational, Attention, Autism, Gifted assessment, and social-emotional assessment.
"How do I help my child keep their cool?" "How do I connect with my teen?" Parenting is hard. In fact, it may be the hardest thing we do in our lives. We live in a world that is increasingly becoming busier, competitive, and full of stressors. At Mindful Psychology and Wellness Centre we are here to support your family's journey and guide you in nurturing kindness, resilience, and confidence in your child and your relationship with them. As parents and professionals, we know how tricky life can get and we are here to help you find the right care for you.
Our psychology team offers the following assessments: Psychoeducational, Attention, Autism, Gifted assessment, and social-emotional assessment.
"How do I help my child keep their cool?" "How do I connect with my teen?" Parenting is hard. In fact, it may be the hardest thing we do in our lives. We live in a world that is increasingly becoming busier, competitive, and full of stressors. At Mindful Psychology and Wellness Centre we are here to support your family's journey and guide you in nurturing kindness, resilience, and confidence in your child and your relationship with them. As parents and professionals, we know how tricky life can get and we are here to help you find the right care for you.
(289) 271-0569 View (289) 271-0569
Photo of Sharon Chan, PhD , CPsych, Psychologist
Sharon Chan
Psychologist, PhD , CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5E
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of anxiety disorders and selective mutism, autism, trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, personality disorders (including borderline personality disorder), relational and parent/child attachment disorders, gender and identity issues, and emotion dysregulation challenges - among many other things!.
Hi, I'm Dr. Sharon Chan, a Clinical Psychologist registered in Ontario to provide services to children, adolescents, families, and adults. I'm excited to be part of the MindFit team, a leading 30+ clinician private practice, or what I prefer to call a "mental health gym". Seeking support can be stigmatizing and impersonal - but it doesn't need to be! Just like a typical gym, MindFit is designed to be accessible and inviting to anyone looking to improve their emotional well-being. I use effective, evidence-based treatments and most importantly, do everything I can to ensure you feel supported, accepted, and valued.
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of anxiety disorders and selective mutism, autism, trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, personality disorders (including borderline personality disorder), relational and parent/child attachment disorders, gender and identity issues, and emotion dysregulation challenges - among many other things!.
Hi, I'm Dr. Sharon Chan, a Clinical Psychologist registered in Ontario to provide services to children, adolescents, families, and adults. I'm excited to be part of the MindFit team, a leading 30+ clinician private practice, or what I prefer to call a "mental health gym". Seeking support can be stigmatizing and impersonal - but it doesn't need to be! Just like a typical gym, MindFit is designed to be accessible and inviting to anyone looking to improve their emotional well-being. I use effective, evidence-based treatments and most importantly, do everything I can to ensure you feel supported, accepted, and valued.
(647) 955-5180 View (647) 955-5180
Photo of Dr. Melodie Lemay-Gaulin, DPsy, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Melodie Lemay-Gaulin
Psychologist, DPsy, CPsych
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6G
Waitlist for new clients
Open for in-person sessions on Monday afternoon. I am passionate about helping individuals and couples learn to live more fully and authentically. I offer individual psychotherapy, couple therapy and psychodiagnostic assessments (including for ADHD and autism). I focus on providing neurodiversity-affirming care and work with people facing a variety of challenges including anxiety, interpersonal conflict, infidelity and more. I aim to welcome each client with non-judgmental curiosity, warmth and authenticity. My practice is sex positive, kink positive, and inclusive of LGBTQIA+ communities and non-traditional relationship structures.
Open for in-person sessions on Monday afternoon. I am passionate about helping individuals and couples learn to live more fully and authentically. I offer individual psychotherapy, couple therapy and psychodiagnostic assessments (including for ADHD and autism). I focus on providing neurodiversity-affirming care and work with people facing a variety of challenges including anxiety, interpersonal conflict, infidelity and more. I aim to welcome each client with non-judgmental curiosity, warmth and authenticity. My practice is sex positive, kink positive, and inclusive of LGBTQIA+ communities and non-traditional relationship structures.
(365) 650-8809 View (365) 650-8809

See more therapy options for Lisle

Autism Counsellors

What is the most effective treatment for autism?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has come to be considered the standard treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder, and research has confirmed its effectiveness for many children. Therapists trained in ABA techniques work with children (and their parents) on developing social skills, communication and learning abilities, and everyday habits of hygiene and grooming. The clinician will tailor their program to the child’s particular need but the overarching goal will be to help them advance as far as possible toward independence based on their level of symptoms and decrease the need for additional special services. Families should seek a mental health professional specifically trained in ABA, and holding special certification in the technique, who has extensive experience not only with the approach but in using it with children with the same level of symptoms as the child who needs care.

How does ABA work?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) sessions, which typically focus on positive reinforcement, can be intensive, lasting two or more hours several times a week, and continuing for two years or more. Therapists can also be expected to ask parents to take an active role in reinforcing lessons. Research has found that the technique can lead to major improvements that decrease the need for additional special services.

How does treatment for autism work?

Therapy sessions based on Applied Behavior Analysis will likely be frequent, intensive, and highly structured. After a thorough assessment, a therapist will help a child understand and develop skills in a range of areas, including communication, motor skills, social skills, self-care, play, and academic skills, as well as routines of daily living like hygiene. Typically, the therapist will help a child break down the components of a behavior—often referred to as the antecedent (what prompts an action), the behavior, and the consequence(what immediately follows)—and then reward the child at every step, while also asking parents to reinforce the lessons, and the rewards, throughout the day. This core therapy may be supplemented by occupational or speech therapy, and antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants may be prescribed to address specific severe symptoms.

How long does therapy for autism take?

Some people with autism spectrum disorder may be engaged in some level of therapy for many years, but research shows that treatment will be most effective if it is begun early and delivered intensively. When therapy begins by age 3, children tend to be better able to grasp and adopt the skills needed to manage everyday life, including attending school and establishing social relationships. This type of early-intervention treatment regimen is highly structured, typically involving 20 to 40 hours of one-on-one therapy per week, along with additional hours of engagement managed by parents, for a period of two years or more, although the duration of treatment is dependent on the child’s level of symptoms and pace of progress.